Bill Bailey, the renowned comedian, and Sarah Massey, a pivotal figure in women’s rugby, have been honored in the King’s New Year Honours list. Their recognitions reflect the rich contributions made by individuals from Somerset and neighboring areas in various fields, including sports, education, and community service.
Recognition of Bill Bailey and Sarah Massey
Bill Bailey has been appointed a Medallist of the Order of the British Empire (BEM). His acknowledgment is for his significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Born in Somerset and raised in Bath, Bailey has also gained fame as a winner on “Strictly Come Dancing,” where he became the oldest champion at age 55 in 2020.
Sarah Massey is recognized for her role as Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. Under her leadership, the tournament achieved record attendance and viewership, highlighting women’s rugby’s growing prominence. Massey’s contributions have been key to inspiring future generations in this sport.
Complete New Year Honours List for Somerset
- Knight Bachelor: Dr. Stephen Peter Taylor – For services to Education (Nailsea, Somerset)
- Companions of the Order of the Bath (CB): Joanna Elizabeth Clare Shanmugalingam – For services to Transport and Innovation (Bath, Somerset)
- Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE):
- Paul Robert Freeston – For services to the Food and Drink Industry (Bath, Somerset)
- Simon Howard Taylor – For Political and Public Service (Bath, Somerset)
- Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE):
- Martin John Baker – For services to Broadcasting (Taunton, Somerset)
- Fiona Bloor – For services to the Law of the Sea (Taunton, Somerset)
- Eileen Gillian Clark – For services to Education (Bath, Somerset)
- Jane Louise Hadfield – For services to Education (Somerset)
- Martin Robert Hodgson – For services to the community (Axbridge, Somerset)
- Margaret Edna Maltby – For services to Young People (Chard, Somerset)
- Sarah Helen Massey – For services to Women’s Rugby Union (Street, Somerset)
- Terry David Thatcher – For services to Defence (Taunton, Somerset)
- Jonathan Wheatley – For services to Horticulture and Charity (Somerset)
- Medallists of the Order of the British Empire (BEM):
- Susan Kathleen Collard – For Charitable Service (Weston-super-Mare, Somerset)
- Ronald Gordon Homer – For services to the Blind and Partially-Sighted in Somerset (Yeovil, Somerset)
- Susan Renee Marshall – For services to Education and the community in Weston-super-Mare (Weston-super-Mare, Somerset)
- Geoffrey Philip Pinney – For services to Young People (Taunton, Somerset)
- Mark Robert Bailey – For services to Entertainment (London, Greater London)
- James William Deane – For services to Sport and Fitness (Trowbridge, Wiltshire)
- Victoria Louise Seymour – For services to Skills (Ottery St Mary, Devon)
- Christine Alice Storry – For services to Local Food Procurement (Bristol, Bristol)
The New Year Honours list showcases the dedication and achievements of individuals across various sectors, particularly highlighting the growing influence of women in sports through figures like Sarah Massey.
